GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Climate Change
We recognize that climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, and we understand the importance of taking proactive and responsible action in response. We have taken important steps in advancing our climate strategy, implementing initiatives that contribute both to reducing emissions and making our operations more resilient.
Bracell’s Sustainability Steering Committee is responsible for decisions and initiatives related to climate change, and for short-, medium-, and long-term strategic planning in this area.
Bracell is advancing its Climate Action strategy by quantifying and managing corporate emissions, setting climate targets, and planning initiatives across operations, all aligned with our Bracell 2030 targets.
2030 Targets
| Strategic Pillar | Target 2030 |
Baseline 2020 |
Target 2030 |
Target 2024 |
2024 Performance | SDGs Addressed |
| CLIMATE ACTION | Reduce carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75%, targeting 0.122 tCO₂e/adt | 0,482 tCO2e/adt | 0.122 tCO2e/adt | 0.151 tCO2e/adt | 0.208 tCO2e/adt | 13, 14, 15 |
| 25 MtCO₂e removed from the atmosphere between 2020 and 2030 | Net carbon removals =
fossil GHG emissions + biogenic LULUCF emissions – removals total CO₂ removals from eucalyptus plantations and native vegetation areas |
25 MtCO2e | 22.19 MtCO2e | 4.30MtCO2e | 13, 14, 15 |
As part of the Bracell 2030 roadmap, we have set two commitments tied to the material topic Climate Change. Our climate goals were developed based on an analysis of the risks and impacts – both positive and negative – Bracell’s operations have on climate change. Our operations emit greenhouse gases (GHG) and also capture CO₂ from the atmosphere by growing and preserving forest areas managed by Bracell, including planted eucalyptus forests and native forests.
By 2030, we have committed to reducing our carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75% from a 2020 baseline. This means reaching 0.122 tCO₂e/adt. In addition, we will remove 25 MtCO₂e from the atmosphere over the course of a decade—from 2020 to 2030.
For 2024, our interim targets were to close the year with 0.151 tCO2e/adt and 22.19 MtCO2e in removals. Measured results are detailed below:
Target 1: reduce carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75%, targeting 0.122 tCO₂e/adt
From 2020 to 2024, we reduced carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 61%, reaching 0.208 tCO₂e/adt.
Although we achieved a 63% reduction in our emissions intensity over that period, a number of factors prevented us from meeting our 2024 target. The main negative impacts on emissions reduction came from increased mobile combustion in our operations and a higher occurrence of wildfires. On the positive side, we achieved significant operational gains this year, such as reducing natural gas consumption and expanding the use of biomass in our gasifiers. These initiatives helped reduce emissions from stationary combustion—our largest Scope 1 emissions category—and put us on track to meet our long-term targets.
We are also implementing several initiatives to mitigate climate-change impacts and keep moving forward on decarbonizing our operations. Examples include investments in electric trucks for pulp transport, currently in the trial phase, and in generating and sourcing renewable energy, as detailed in the Energy Efficiency chapter.
Target 2: 25 MtCO₂e removed from the atmosphere between 2020 and 2030
From 2020 to 2024, we removed 4,229,568 tCO₂e. This figure reflects the carbon balance of our operations—i.e. the difference between total removals and emissions (including anthropogenic and biogenic LULUCF—Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry—emissions.
In 2024, we faced the most challenging hydrological scenario of the past five years in the state of São Paulo. The extreme conditions were primarily caused by rising temperatures and a significant decrease in rainfall. Water deficits directly impact forest yields: the greater the deficit, the slower the eucalyptus forest growth, which in turn reduces their ability to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere during the growth process.
Additionally, the adverse climate conditions significantly increased the occurrence of forest fires.
As a result of these extreme weather events, we reached only 19% of our CO₂ removal target for 2024.
Bracell has developed a range of initiatives to mitigate these impacts and increase the resilience of our operations to climate change. Key initiatives include monitoring carbon and water flux in eucalyptus plantations; investing in forest research and development (R&D); integrated climate-related risk and impact management; and conducting climate zoning studies. Learn more in Monitoring Carbon and Water Flux in Eucalyptus Plantations and Climate Zoning Study.
Impacts and risks
Bracell conducts an assessment of the actual and potential impacts related to each material topic in a materiality matrix, considering both positive and negative effects on the economy, the environment, and people—including impacts on human rights. For the topic climate change, the following impacts have been identified:
| Impacts | Details | Details |
| Actual positive impacts | We remove carbon from the atmosphere through our eucalyptus plantations, native forests, and soil. | In 2024, our planted forests removed 2,745,849 tCO₂e, while our native forests removed 1,373,161 tCO₂e, totaling 4,119,010 tCO₂e in gross removals. |
| Actual negative impacts | Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from our operations. | Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, whose impacts are limited in scale and moderate in intensity. We have effective internal control mechanisms in place to manage and reduce these emissions (see more in our GHG inventory on page XX). |
| Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from our operations. | Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions, whose impacts are broad in scale and high in intensity. We have internal control mechanisms in place and recognize the importance of strengthening our strategy to mitigate Scope 3 GHG emissions. We actively participate in committees and working groups on this topic (see more in our GHG inventory on page XX). |
CDP
In 2024, we responded for the first time to CDP questionnaires and received a B rating across all three evaluated topics: Climate Change; Forests and Water Security. A B rating is strong for companies in their first year of reporting and demonstrates our commitment to transparency and responsible environmental management.
CDP is one of the world’s leading environmental disclosure platforms, recognized for helping companies produce standardized and comparable reporting used by a wide range of stakeholders, including banks, customers, partners, and civil society. Our CDP reporting reflects our commitment to continuously improving environmental management and aligning with international best practices.
| Climate | Forestry | Water |
| B | B | B |
GHG Inventory
As a key part of our climate agenda, Bracell annually prepares a corporate inventory of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals. In 2024, our inventory covered the entire pulp value chain, including emissions from mill operations in Lençóis Paulista (SP) and Camaçari (BA), forestry operations in these states and in Mato Grosso do Sul, and related logistics operations (see more about our forestry operations in the section GRI 2-6 About Bracell).
The data in our GHG Inventory is externally audited by an independent third party, with an Assurance Statement published in our Sustainability Report and in the Disclosures of (see more on page GRI 305 Emissions).
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories cover Scopes 1, 2 and 3 and are prepared in accordance with guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Since 2022, Bracell has published its GHG Inventory data in the Public Emissions Registry.
As a member of the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program (PBGHG), Bracell publishes GHG Inventory data in the Public Emissions Registry, having been awarded the Program’s Gold badge in 2024.
The PBGHG recognizes participating organizations for voluntary accountability to stakeholders who are increasingly concerned with corporate social and environmental responsibility. The Gold badge is awarded to organizations that demonstrate high levels of accuracy and transparency in their greenhouse gas inventory submissions to the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program’s Public Emissions Register (RPE).
Carbon balance
Bracell’s planted eucalyptus forests and native forest areas play a crucial role in capturing CO2 from the atmosphere, absorbing and storing carbon throughout the trees’ growth cycle. This natural process helps partially offset our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
In 2024, our carbon balance showed that our removals exceeded our emissions—an improvement on previous years. Our closing carbon balance was -175,471.36 tCO₂e. See details in the table below.
We removed -4,119,009.65 tCO₂e from the atmosphere in 2024, and our net carbon balance was -175,471.36 tCO₂e
| Emissions | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Total (S1 + S2 + S3) | 1,555,114.00 | 1,701,669.00 | 1,716,315.84 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 2 | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
| Scope 3 | 935,183.00 | 1,094,603.00 | 971,739.41 |
| Biogenic LULUCF emissions | 3,793,831.00 | 3,940,391.00 | 2,227,222.45 |
| Biogenic removals | -1,309,842.00 | -1,286,441.00 | -4,119,009.65 |
| Balance | 4,039,103.00 | 4,355,619.00 | -175,471.36 |
Monitoring Carbon and Water Flux in Eucalyptus Plantations
We are a member of the Eucflux-IPEF Cooperative Program, which studies carbon and water flux in eucalyptus plantations in Brazil. This research is enhancing our understanding of these processes in a Bracell-managed eucalyptus plantation in Itatinga, São Paulo, where we have set up a flux tower equipped with advanced monitoring technology.
Eucflux is led by the Institute for Forest Research and Studies (IPEF) and the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), with participation from academic institutions such as the Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), São Paulo State University (UNESP), and the University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP).
Our Monitoring Investments
Bracell monitors water and carbon flux in five areas of eucalyptus and native forests.
As part of our commitments within the Bracell 2030 roadmap, we have invested in building five flux towers to monitor water and carbon flux in our operations. In 2024, we installed two towers—one in a native forest area in São Paulo and another in a eucalyptus area in Bahia. Two more towers will be installed in Mato Grosso do Sul—one in each type of forested area—and another tower in a native forest in Bahia. The data is managed and analyzed by our Forestry Research and Development team.
Forestry R&D, risk management and climate change impacts
We invest in classical genetic improvement, silviculture, forest management, extension services, and technology transfer to ensure a sustainable supply of high-quality pulpwood over the medium and long term—and ultimately business continuity and product excellence.
The Forest R&D team’s key research endpoints are to improve the MAI (Mean Annual Increment of Wood) and MACI (Mean Annual Increment of Pulp) sustainably. Each year, a research pipeline is created with this goal in mind, taking into account the specific conditions and characteristics of each region where we operate.
Classical Genetic Improvement
Bracell does not use genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and develops its eucalyptus clones through classical genetic improvement. This process involves the generation, evaluation and selection of clones improved in successive cycles. The focus of genetic improvement is also on developing techniques aimed at improving cloning efficiency, guaranteeing high-quality pulpwood that is more sustainable in the long term.
In 2024, our Forestry R&D team recommended the commercial planting of two clonal blends—one in São Paulo and one in Bahia. These are unique cultivars formed by a blend of clones, which reduces vulnerability and offers greater protection against pests, diseases, and adverse weather events. The clonal blends were tested in our nurseries, and are now ready to be planted commercially starting in 2025.
In addition to the two clonal blends, two new classical clones were also recommended—one for operations in São Paulo and another for Bahia.
Silviculture and Forest Management
At Bracell, we seek to continually improve our monitoring and climate-zoning processes, and use best-practice soil conservation, preparation and fertilization practices. Sustainable control of pests, diseases and weeds is also a priority, ensuring healthy, productive forests in the long term.
Biological control using natural enemies
In 2024, we produced 6 million natural enemies in São Paulo and 89 million in Bahia, totaling 95 million for the year—an increase of 46% compared to 65 million in 2023. Biological control replaces the use of chemicals, preventing emissions of N2O greenhouse gases.
Forestry extension and technology transfer
We provide specialized technical assistance and promote technology transfer in our forestry operations, advancing best practices and continuous process improvement.
Climate zoning studies
We continuously conduct climate zoning studies using historical climate data such as precipitation, temperature, and latitude. This analysis helps us identify optimal areas for eucalyptus planting and make region-specific technical recommendations, including clone allocation and fertilization strategies.
In 2024, we introduced a new zoning parameter in Bahia: altitude. As a result of these studies, region-specific planting methods and cultivar recommendations will be provided.
Energy Efficiency
Our facilities in Lençóis Paulista (SP) are energy self-sufficient. At our mills, recovery boilers produce steam that is fed to turbine-generator sets to generate electricity. We only source electricity from the national grid during equipment maintenance shutdowns. In these cases, we source electricity from the national grid, which derives approximately 85% of its electricity from renewable sources—mainly hydro, wind, and solar.
We also purchase electricity for forestry operations and nurseries, where diesel is additionally used in power generators.
At our storage yards in Lençóis Paulista (SP), we use electric forklifts to reduce fossil fuel consumption in these operations. In 2024, we continued testing electric trucks to transport pulp from our mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP) to the road-rail terminal in Pederneiras (SP).
Renewable Energy
The new flexible lines at our Lençóis Paulista (SP) mill are equipped with a recovery boiler that generates renewable energy from eucalyptus biomass, composed of trimmings from the plant and other substances originating from the production of dissolving pulp, including black liquor—a byproduct of pulp production.
These lines have been developed to be fossil fuel-free, with on-site capacity to generate clean and renewable electricity for operations and a surplus that is fed into the national grid.
The Lençóis Paulista (SP) site has a 440 kV substation with an installed capacity of 409 MW, enough to supply the full electricity requirement of the mill and a surplus of approximately 150 to 180 MW that is sold to the national grid, enough to supply clean renewable electricity to around 750,000 homes or approximately 3 million people.
Our Bahia plant is also equipped with a recovery boiler that generates renewable electricity from eucalyptus biomass.
In 2024, we generated 192,803,255.26 GJ of renewable energy. We sold 2,718,409.21 GJ of eucalyptus biomass-generated electricity to the Brazilian free energy market (see more in GRI 302).
Bracell holds International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs) as proof that the electricity we use in our operations and sell is renewably sourced.
Sustainability Attributes at Bracell Papéis
Bracell Papéis’ plants feature technologies that enable the use of renewable energy in our operations and help prevent greenhouse gas emissions during pulp transportation to the tissue plant at our Lençóis Paulista (SP) site.
Solar Power
The Bracell Papéis facility in Lençóis Paulista (SP) has a 50,000 m2 solar panel array covering the entire roof of the industrial plant, generating 7.21 MW of renewable, fossil fuel–free energy. This generation capacity meets 20% of the site’s total electricity requirement.
Automated Vertical Warehouse and Energy Efficiency
The products manufactured at the site are stored in an automated vertical warehouse that uses robot-operated elevators to optimize goods handling. This system ensures greater energy efficiency in the process. Automation reduces the need for lighting and air-conditioning, resulting in energy savings in warehousing operations.
The system also enables better logistics control, allowing for optimized storage and fast product handling, which reduces waste and increases productivity.
It also improves safety and efficiency. Automation minimizes human intervention, making the process safer, more precise and more sustainable.
Biomass boiler
At the Bracell Papéis plant in Feira de Santana (BA), we commissioned a new biomass boiler, which came online in December. The new unit, which is safer and more efficient, was installed as part of our Inovar program—representing the largest investment in the facility’s history.
Pulp Transportation for Tissue Production
The Bracell Papéis mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP) is located on the same site as Bracell’s flexible lines, where the kraft pulp used in Tissue manufacture is produced. This logistics integration allows the pulp to be transported via pipeline, eliminating the need for drying and road transport, thereby saving GHG emissions and optimizing processes.
Electric Trucks
Since 2023, Bracell has been testing electric trucks for pulp transport, as part of our commitment to sustainable practices across the entire operation. Although still in a trial phase, the initiative supports GHG emissions reductions in our logistics and uses renewable electricity generated in our own production process.
In 2024, the electric trucks transported 33.2 thousand metric tons of product, covering a total of 91,500 kilometers.
GRI 201-2 Financial implications and other risks and opportunities due to climate change
Bracell systematically identifies and classifies climate -related risks and opportunities. These are categorized as physical or regulatory, and their financial implications for the business are determined. We also detail the methods used to manage each risk.
| Source of Risk | Risk | Scope |
| Physical Risks and Opportunities | Extreme weather events (floods, windstorms, and forest fires) | These may result in significant losses of forest assets, production disruptions, raw material supply disruptions, increased insurance costs, and additional operational risks. Our approach to managing these risks includes weather-resistant building and industrial facility designs, effective industrial fire suppression systems, forest fire response plans, and insurance coverage for facilities and equipment. |
| Physical Risks and Opportunities | Changes in rainfall patterns | These may lead to reduced water availability, increased costs for sourcing and treatment, and limitations on production capacity. Our approach to managing these risks includes strict monitoring of water consumption in line with water permits, setting reduction targets and performance indicators, and implementing water recycling projects and renewable energy solutions to improve operational efficiency. |
| Physical Risks and Opportunities | Water shortage | This poses both physical and regulatory risks, directly affecting groundwater usage permits and potentially limiting production and future expansion. Our approach to managing these risks includes continuous monitoring of water consumption and setting clear performance indicators and targets for consumption reduction, aiming to optimize processes and reduce losses. |
| Physical Risks and Opportunities | Strong winds and heavy rainfall | These events can cause serious damage to assets, limiting or halting production operations. We manage these risks by designing structures to withstand severe weather and maintaining emergency and business continuity plans. |
| Regulatory Risk and Opportunity | More stringent legal and regulatory climate-related requirements | These requirements could result in additional compliance costs. Our approach to managing these risks involves close monitoring and control of water consumption and permits, carrying out research and projects around water reduction and reuse in industrial processes, and expanding renewable energy and use of electric equipment (such as electric forklifts) to significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption. |
Risk management process
Our Corporate Risk Management and Business Continuity Policy provides guidelines on identifying, assessing, addressing, and monitoring corporate risks through a structured Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process. This process follows international standards such as ISO 31000, BSI 31100, and COSO ERM, covering operational, social, environmental, governance, technological, strategic, political, and financial risks.
Climate-related risks with financial impacts are categorized and classified in accordance with Bracell’s Risk Classification Matrix. A clear implementation schedule has been established for deploying ERM across departments by 2025, supported by strategic indicators to ensure identified risks are reduced to acceptable levels.
In 2025, we will complete (100%) ERM implementation across all 18 departments listed in the plan, including manufacturing, forestry, logistics, and corporate. We plan to implement all proposed actions to reduce identified risks, with a goal to bring at least seven of the major risks to acceptable criticality levels by year-end.
Methods Used to Manage Climate Change Risks or Opportunities
In our operations, we adopt management practices and invest in technologies aimed at preventing and mitigating climate change impacts, such as carbon capture and storage, fossil fuel replacement, the use of renewable and low-carbon energy, energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy certificates, among other methods (see more in GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Climate Change).
| Fossil fuel replacement with renewable energy – in the two flexible lines at the Lençóis Paulista (SP) site, we produce synthesis gas (Syngas) from eucalyptus biomass in our biomass gasifiers to power the lime kilns. |
| Replacement of 1B oil with natural gas in the lime kiln – using advanced engineering technologies and solutions, we have launched a project to replace 1B oil (a petroleum-derived fuel oil) with natural gas in the lime kiln of the site’s older production line in Lençóis Paulista (SP). |
| Electric forklifts and trucks – our operations are deploying electric forklifts running on renewable electricity produced on-site in Lençóis Paulista. We also plan to expand our fleet of electric trucks for logistics operations—the first electric heavy-haul vehicles (40+ tons) to be deployed in this type of operation. The aim is to reduce GHG emissions. |
| Ongoing climate-focused improvements – our dedicated continuous improvement team employs agile methodologies (Kaizen) to drive climate-related projects. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a key focus of our current Kaizen initiatives. We also participate in decarbonization forums to explore and deploy new technologies and best practices across the company. |
| Research on carbon and water flux in eucalyptus plantations – as part of the Eucflux-IPEF Cooperative Program, we conduct research on carbon and water flux in eucalyptus plantations in Brazil. This research is enhancing our understanding of these processes in a Bracell-managed eucalyptus plantation in Itatinga, São Paulo, where we have set up a flux tower equipped with advanced monitoring technology. |
| Investment in carbon and water flux towers – in line with our Bracell 2030 commitments, we are installing five additional monitoring towers in both eucalyptus plantations and native forests across São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Bahia. In 2024, we installed two towers—one in a native forest area in São Paulo and another in a eucalyptus area in Bahia. Two more towers will be installed in Mato Grosso do Sul—one in each type of forested area—and another tower in a native forest in Bahia. |
| GHG Protocol – our greenhouse gas emissions inventories are published on the Brazilian GHG Protocol Public Emissions Registry platform. |
| CDP – In 2024, we responded for the first time to CDP questionnaires and received a B rating across all three evaluated topics: Climate Change; Forests and Water Security. A B rating is strong for companies in their first year of reporting and demonstrates our commitment to transparency and responsible environmental management. |
| GHG Inventory Assurance Statement – our GHG inventory—covering Scopes 1, 2, and 3—and our tCO2e removals are externally audited and assured. |
GRI 302-1 Energy consumption within the organization
We invest in processes and technologies to enhance energy efficiency across our operations, prioritizing renewable energy sources. We have set 2030 targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per metric ton of pulp produced. Our company also has policies and action plans in place to mitigate impacts and support low-carbon production.
Reducing energy intensity, improving energy efficiency, and investing in a low-carbon energy mix are some of the initiatives Bracell pursues to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (see more under GRI 305 Emissions).
Our mills are energy self-sufficient. We only use electricity from the national grid during maintenance shutdowns. In these cases, we source electricity from the national grid, which derives approximately 85% of its electricity from renewable sources—mainly hydro, wind, and solar. In addition, we sell our surplus electricity output to the free market with I-REC certification, contributing to Brazil’s high share of clean energy.
At the pulp yard in our Lençóis Paulista (SP) mill, we use electric forklifts to reduce fossil fuel consumption in these operations. In 2024, we continued testing electric trucks to transport pulp from our mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP) to the road-rail terminal in Pederneiras (SP).
Energy management in our operations:
- biomass boiler at our Lençóis Paulista (SP) pulp mill generates renewable energy using eucalyptus biomass—composed of plant residues and byproducts from the dissolving pulp production process, including black liquor.
- All production lines at the site were designed to run entirely on fossil-free energy, producing clean energy on-site not only for internal use but also a surplus sold to Brazil’s energy grid.
- The Lençóis Paulista (SP) site has a 440 kV substation with an installed capacity of 409 MW, sufficient to power the mill and inject a clean energy surplus of 150 to 180 MW into the national grid—enough to supply 405,000 homes or around 1.6 million people.
- Our Lençóis Paulista Tissue paper mill, commissioned in 2024, features a 50,000 m² solar panel array that generates 7.21 MW of clean, fossil-free, renewable electricity—supplying around 20% of the plant’s total electricity requirement. This R$ 21 million investment is one of the largest recent initiatives in renewable energy within the sector. The solar array, consisting of 10,836 solar panels, was built over four months and involved 59 professionals in a highly coordinated operation, including lifting, distributing, and installing the equipment, and building a control center for real-time energy monitoring and management. The completion of this project marks an important milestone in our commitment to sustainable and efficient solutions.
- At the Bracell Papéis plant in Feira de Santana (BA), we commissioned a new biomass boiler, which came online in December. The new unit, which is safer and more efficient with its automated feed system, was installed as part of Inovar—the largest investment program in the facility’s history.
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Bahia | 1,579,433.51 | 1,541,824.41 | 17,706,299.98 |
| São Paulo | 5,828,717.43 | 6,248,231.37 | 177,670,455.60 |
| Southeast Paper Operations | – | – | 380,731.13 |
| Northeast Paper Operations | – | – | 543,413.07 |
| Total | 7,408,150.94 | 7,790,055.78 | 196,300,899.77 |
Note: Electricity consumption is calculated as total purchased and generated electricity, less any electricity sold to third parties.
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Bahia | 1,262,907.28 | 1,066,178.70 | 17,178,104.38 |
| São Paulo | 8,896,430.99 | 9,387,409.61 | 180,045,408.44 |
| Southeast Paper Operations | – | – | 380,731.13 |
| Northeast Paper Operations | – | – | 370,631.18 |
| Total | 10,159,338.27 | 10,453,588.31 | 197,974,875.12 |
Note: in 2024, Bracell adopted a new methodology for calculating energy generation and consumption across all operations. Unlike in 2022 and 2023, when only electricity consumption was taken into account, the new approach implemented in 2024 is broader in scope. This updated method includes all types of energy used in production processes—such as electricity, steam, fuels (both renewable and non-renewable), and other sources related to heating and steam generation.
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Bahia | 348,790.00 | 486,127.30 | 538,992.00 |
| São Paulo | 112,990.60 | 367,038.00 | 332,659.68 |
| Southeast paper operations¹ | – | – | 0.00 |
| Northeast Paper Operations | – | – | 172,781.89 |
| Total | 461,780.60 | 853,165.30 | 1,044,433.57 |
Note: electricity from the national grid is used during general plant shutdowns and corrective maintenance within the production process.
- Bracell Papéis Sudeste uses electricity generated as part of the pulp production process. As a result, this site does not purchase energy from external sources.
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Bahia | 32,263.77 | 10,481.59 | 10,796.40 |
| São Paulo | 3,180,704.16 | 3,506,216.24 | 2,707,612.52 |
| Total | 3,212,967.93 | 3,516,697.83 | 2,718,408.92 |
Note: the reduction in electricity sales from the Lençóis Paulista (SP) site is due to a reduction in electricity exports caused by an increase in on-site electricity consumption.
Total energy consumed within the organization, by type of energy (GJ)
| Type of energy | Bahia | São Paulo | Southeast Paper Operations | Northeast Paper Operations | Bracell |
| Nonrenewable fuels consumed | 2,979,196.54 | 1,312,265.36 | 3,338.29 | 5,712.94 | 4,300,513.13 |
| Renewable fuels consumed | 13,659,915.84 | 64,775,904.80 | 0.00 | 192,136.34 | 78,627,956.98 |
| Electricity, heating, refrigeration and steam purchased for consumption | 538,992.00 | 113,957,238.28 | 377,392.84 | 172,781.89 | 115,046,405.01 |
| Sale of surplus electricity, heating, cooling or steam | 10,796.40 | 2,707,612.52 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2,718,408.92 |
| Total | 17,178,104.38 | 180,045,408.44 | 380,731.13 | 370,631.18 | 197,974,875.12 |
GRI 302-3 Energy intensity
Energy intensity refers to the amount of energy required to produce one unit of a product or service. We use the metric GJ/adt, or energy consumed per air-dried ton of pulp or paper produced.
Until 2023, we considered energy consumption outside the organization as referring to purchase electricity used in our own operations. Energy consumption at sites outside the operational boundary and not under Bracell’s direct control is not tracked withing our sustainability data management systems. We report energy use outside the organization through our greenhouse gas emissions inventory, under Scope 3 emissions, which cover pulp production and sales operations.
In 2024, Bracell Papéis began integrating its operations into the management processes and procedures of Bracell and the wider RGE Group. As a result, these operations were not included in the data collection scope of the emissions inventory and some operational data is unavailable due to priorities set for 2024. Unavailable data will be published starting with the 2025 performance report.
For the 2025 reporting cycle, Bracell will report data on energy consumption outside the organization and include paper production and sales operations in our GHG emissions inventory.
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Bahia | 3.29 | 3.27 | 3.19 |
| São Paulo | 1.95 | 2.07 | 2.12 |
| Southeast Paper | – | – | – |
| Northeast Paper | – | – | – |
| Total | 5.24 | 5.34 | 5.31 |
- Energy intensity data is calculated based on the volume of electricity consumed per metric ton of product produced: kraft pulp and dissolving pulp. For confidentiality reasons, Bracell does not report production data. In 2024, Bracell Papéis began integrating its operations into the management processes and procedures used at Bracell and the wider RGE Group. As a result, operational data is unavailable for this report due to the processes prioritized in 2024. Unavailable data will be published starting with the 2025 performance report.
GRI 302-4 Reduction in energy consumption
The goal in our energy savings efforts is to minimize waste, lower operational costs, and mitigate environmental impacts by promoting more efficient and sustainable use of energy resources.
Starting in 2024, Bracell adopted a new energy accounting methodology that includes all energy types used in production processes—such as electricity, steam, renewable and non-renewable fuels, and other. In previous years (2022 and 2023), only electricity consumption was reported. As a result, energy consumption values from 2023 and 2024 are not directly comparable due to the change in measurement criteria.
This updated analysis enables a more accurate and comprehensive analysis of Bracell’s energy performance. Learn more under GRI 302-1 Energy consumption within the organization.
GRI 305-1 Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our pulp mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
In 2024, Bracell’s Scope 1 fossil emissions accounted for 43% of the total, amounting to 731,362.80 tCO₂e—a 22.4% increase compared to the previous year. This increase was primarily driven by higher fossil fuel use in our logistics operations, especially due to longer transport distances between plantation areas and the mill, along with a significant rise in forest fire incidents.
The gases included in the Scope 1 emissions calculation are: CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs and SF6.
| Scope 1 Categories | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |||
| Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | |
| Mobile combustion | 96,418.860 | 15.7% | 121,700.475 | 20.4% | 214,992.18 | 29.4% |
| Stationary combustion | 356,481.661 | 58.0% | 309,539.105 | 51.8% | 296,113.67 | 40.5% |
| Generated waste and effluents | 46,321.353 | 7.5% | 596.112 | 0.1% | 13,974.3 | 1.9% |
| Fugitive | 3,139.397 | 0.5% | 5,231.529 | 0.9% | 12,284.43 | 1.7% |
| Agricultural operations | 111,079.267 | 18.1% | 155,955.175 | 26.1% | 154,586.98 | 21.1% |
| Land-use change | 1,232.098 | 0.2% | 4,431.985 | 0.7% | 39,411.23 | 5.4% |
| Total | 614,672.636 | 100% | 597,454.381 | 100% | 731,362.80 | 100% |
Bracell reports biogenic CO₂e emissions associated with forestry and mill operations. These include biomass combustion, the use of renewable biofuels in the logistics fleet, fire events, and the natural dynamics of eucalyptus forest management cycles. Unlike fossil-based emissions, biogenic emissions are generally considered carbon neutral over the long term, since they come from renewable biomass that absorbs CO₂ from the atmosphere during its growth.
| Emissions (tCO2e) | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 1 – Biogenic | 10,415,840.85 | 10,810,512.98 | 9,156,105.51 |
Carbon balance
In 2024, Bracell generated 1,716,315.84 tCO₂e in anthropogenic emissions from fossil fuel combustion (across Scopes 1, 2, and 3) and 2,227,222.45 tCO₂e in biogenic LULUCF emissions, and removed 4,119,009.65 tCO₂e through its planted and native forests. As a result, the net emissions balance was -175,471.36 tCO₂e, indicating a positive impact on climate.
In 2024 we achieved significant reductions in stationary combustion, including as a decrease in natural gas consumption and increased use of biomass in our gasifiers.
| Emissions | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Total (S1 + S2 + S3) | 1,555,114.00 | 1,701,669.00 | 1,716,315.84 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 2 | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
| Scope 3 | 935,183.00 | 1,094,603.00 | 971,739.41 |
| Biogenic LULUCF emissions | 3,793,831.00 | 3,940,391.00 | 2,227,222.45 |
| Biogenic removals | -1,309,842.00 | -1,286,441.00 | -4,119,009.65 |
| Balance | 4,039,103.00 | 4,355,619.00 | -175,471.36 |
GRI 305-2 Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our pulp mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
In 2024, Scope 2 accounted for 1% of our total emissions. There was a 37.5% increase in electricity purchased from the national grid. This increase is due to factors such as the expansion of the MS Florestal offices, higher energy use at our port terminal, and operational variations such as turbine shutdowns at the São Paulo and Bahia sites. In our Bahia operation, the strategic decision to prioritize imported electricity over natural gas, combined with periods of lower efficiency in the evaporation area that limited liquor use for power generation, contributed to this increase.
| Scope 2 Category | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Emissions (tCO2e) | Emissions (tCO2e) | Emissions (tCO2e) | |
| Purchased electricity | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
| Total | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
In 2024, Bracell generated 1,716,315.84 tCO2e in anthropogenic emissions from fossil fuel combustion (across Scopes 1, 2, and 3) and 2,227,222.45 tCO2e in biogenic LULUCF emissions, and removed -4,119,009.65 tCO2e through our planted and native forests. As a result, the net emissions balance was -175,471.36 tCO2e, indicating a positive impact on climate.
| Emissions | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Total (S1 + S2 + S3) | 1,555,114.00 | 1,701,669.00 | 1,716,315.84 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 2 | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
| Scope 3 | 935,183.00 | 1,094,603.00 | 971,739.41 |
| Biogenic LULUCF emissions | 3,793,831.00 | 3,940,391.00 | 2,227,222.45 |
| Biogenic removals | -1,309,842.00 | -1,286,441.00 | -4,119,009.65 |
| Balance | 4,039,103.00 | 4,355,619.00 | -175,471.36 |
| Emission | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Total (S1 + S2 + S3) | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Scope 1 | 40% | 35% | 43% |
| Scope 2 | 0.34% | 1% | 1% |
| Scope 3 | 60.1% | 64% | 56% |
GRI 305-3 Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
In 2024, Scope 3 accounted for 57% of our total emissions. There was an 11.2% reduction in emissions, mainly due to shorter average distances traveled per shipment in export operations.
During the reporting period, Bracell offset 10,936.50 tCO2e in emissions generated by ocean freight to Europe through the purchase of emission allowances required under the EU ETS (European Union Emissions Trading System)—the European Union’s carbon pricing mechanism aimed at reducing GHG emissions by limiting and trading emission allowances, or European Union Allowances (EUAs). In 2024, maritime transport was added to the scope of the system. As a result, vessels accessing European ports are required to acquire allowances proportional to the CO2 emissions generated throughout their routes, starting from their departure in Brazil.
Participation in the EU ETS marks a significant step forward in Bracell’s climate management practices across our logistics chain. In addition to ensuring compliance with European environmental regulations, this initiative will support carbon pricing compliance in other international logistics operations. Indirectly, the funds generated through the purchase of emission allowances are allocated by the European Union to initiatives in innovation, clean energy, and climate adaptation, supporting the region’s energy transition.
| Scope 3 Category | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |||
| Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | Emissions (tCO2e) | Percent Share (%) | |
| Purchased Goods and Services | 114,281.440 | 12.2% | 63,152.273 | 5.77% | 47,464.05 | 4.88% |
| Upstream T&D | 24,542.906 | 2.6% | 62,808.497 | 5.74% | 61,756.05 | 6.36% |
| Operational Solid Waste | 828.425 | 0.1% | 41,579.743 | 3.80% | 26,523.86 | 2.73% |
| Business travel | 541.395 | 0.1% | 547.172 | 0.05% | 364.99 | 0.04% |
| Employee Commuting | 5,103.384 | 0.5% | 12,744.223 | 1.16% | 9,603.34 | 0.99% |
| Downstream T&D | 789,995.711 | 84.5% | 913,771.498 | 83.48% | 826,027.12 | 85.01% |
| Total | 935,183.261 | 100% | 1,094,603.40 | 0.00 | 971,739.41 | 38,640.32 |
| Emissions (tCO2e) | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Scope 3 | 935,183.00 | 1,094,603.00 | 971,739.41 |
| Scope 3 – Biogenic | 16,393.519 | 22,573.929 | 36,070.56 |
Carbon balance
In 2024, Bracell generated 1,716,315.84 tCO2e in anthropogenic emissions from fossil fuel combustion (across Scopes 1, 2, and 3) and 2,227,222.45 tCO2e in biogenic LULUCF emissions, and removed -4,119,009.65 tCO2e through its planted and native forests. As a result, the net emissions balance was -175,471.36 tCO2e, indicating a positive impact on climate.
| Emissions | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Total (S1 + S2 + S3) | 1,555,114.00 | 1,701,669.00 | 1,716,315.84 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 2 | 5,258.00 | 9,611.00 | 13,213.63 |
| Scope 3 | 935,183.00 | 1,094,603.00 | 971,739.41 |
| Biogenic LULUCF emissions | 3,793,831.00 | 3,940,391.00 | 2,227,222.45 |
| Biogenic removals | -1,309,842.00 | -1,286,441.00 | -4,119,009.65 |
| Balance | 4,039,103.00 | 4,355,619.00 | –175,471.36 |
GRI 305-5 Reduction of GHG emissions
In 2024, there were no overall reductions. However, during the year, we achieved reductions in stationary combustion, such as decreased natural gas consumption and increased use of biomass in gasifiers, as well as reductions in Scope 3 emissions, mainly due to shorter average distances traveled per shipment in export operations.
| Operating site | Total emissions 2023 (tCO2e) | Total emissions 2024 (tCO2e) | Reduction in emissions |
| Bracell SP | 1,204,383.06 | 1,235,985.47 | 31,602.41 |
| Bracell BA | 367,239.46 | 357,234.41 | -10,005.05 |
| MS Florestal | – | 123,095.97 | 123,095.97 |
| Total | 1,701,669.08 | 1,716,315.84 | 14,646.76 |
GRI 305-4 GHG emissions intensity
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our pulp mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
In 2024, our Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions intensity increased by approximately 19% compared to 2023. The increase was primarily driven by greater use of fossil fuels in our logistics operations and a significant rise in forest fires. It was also influenced by increased electricity purchases from the national grid to accommodate the expansion of our operations.
| Emissions (tCO2e) | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Scopes 1 and 2 | 0.167 | 0.174 | 0.208 |
Note: Bracell’s emissions intensity metric covers scopes 1 and 2 emissions from our São Paulo, Bahia and Mato Grosso do Sul operations, as it refers to emissions from the pulp production process.
GRI 305-6 Emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODS)
Among ozone-depleting substances (ODS), Bracell emitted a total of 4,921.79 tCO2e in 2024, including HCFC-22 and HCFC-141b.
These substances, upon reaching the stratosphere, degrade ozone, which acts as a shield against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Controlling these emissions is crucial to preserving life on Earth and mitigating global environmental imbalances.
| Operating site | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | ||||||
| HCFC-22 (tCO2e) | HCFC-141b (tCO2e) | Total (tCO2e) | HCFC-22 (tCO2e) | HCFC-141b (tCO2e) | Total (tCO2e) | HCFC-22 (tCO2e) | HCFC-141b (tCO2e) | Total (tCO2e) | |
| São Paulo Pulp | 2,010.62 | 63.34 | 2,073.96 | 1,795.20 | 10.64 | 1,805.84 | 3,498.18 | 92.28 | 3,590.45 |
| Bahia Pulp | 553.70 | 0.00 | 553.70 | 538.28 | 0.00 | 538.28 | 1,299.65 | 0.00 | 1,299.65 |
| Bracell | 2,564.32 | 63.34 | 2627,66 | 2,333.480 | 10.64 | 2,344.12 | 4,797.83 | 92.28 | 4,890.10 |
| Scope | Gas | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |||
| In Gas Tonnes (t) | In metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) | In metric tons of gas (t) | In metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) | In metric tons of gas (t) | In metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) | ||
| Scope 1 | CO2 | 477,674.627 | 477,674.627 | 491,508.765 | 491,508.765 | 561,224.17 | 561,224.17 |
| CH4 | 2,006.853 | 56,191.882 | 433.475 | 12,137.292 | 1,919.79 | 53,782.94 | |
| N2O | 293.098 | 77,671.097 | 334.363 | 88,606.193 | 291.54 | 104,422.94 | |
| HFC | 2.411 | 3,134.442 | 3.999 | 5,199.241 | 6.38 | 11,932.69 | |
| HFC-32 | 0.000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2.91 | 1,970.24 | |
| HFC-125 | 0.000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2.91 | 9,242.76 | |
| HFC-134a | 0.000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.55 | 719.22 | |
| HFC-152a | 0.000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.0033 | 0.46 | |
| SF6 | 0.000 | 0.588 | 0 | 0 | 0.000002 | 0.045 | |
| TOTAL SCOPE 1 | 479,977.99 | 614,672.63 | 492,280.6 | 597,454.382 | 551,283.74 | 692,013.28 | |
| Scope 2 | CO2 | 5,258.355 | 5,258.355 | 9,611.20 | 9,611.20 | 13,213.63 | 13,213.63 |
| TOTAL SCOPE 2 | 5,258.355 | 5,258.355 | 9,611.20 | 9,611.20 | 13,213.63 | 13,213.63 | |
| Scope 3 | CO2 | 920,172.965 | 920,172.965 | 1,035,677.11 | 1,035,677.11 | 910,252.13 | 910,252.13 |
| CH4 | 47.736 | 1,336.62 | 1,504.956 | 42,138.762 | 947.31 | 26,218.61 | |
| N2O | 51.599 | 13,673.67 | 63.349 | 16,787.526 | 140.084 | 35,268.67 | |
| TOTAL SCOPE 3 | 920,272.30 | 935,183.26 | 1,037,245.41 | 1,094,603.405 | 1,047,111.97 | 971,739.41 | |
GRI 305-7 Nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and other significant air emissions
Nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), particulate matter (PM), and total reduced sulfur (TRS) compounds are among the most critical air pollutants due to their direct and indirect impacts on climate and human health. These pollutants are mainly produced by fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes.
| Substance | Site | Bahia Pulp | São Paulo Pulp | Bracell | ||||||
| 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | ||
| NOx | t | NA | 451.93 | 448.42 | NA | 2,847.74 | 3,131.48 | NA | 3299.64 | 3,579.90 |
| SOx | t | NA | 30.47 | 39.65 | NA | 139.89 | 59.05 | NA | 170.36 | 98.70 |
| PM | t | NA | 197.30 | 199.99 | NA | 643.26 | 473.22 | NA | 840.56 | 673.21 |
| TRS | t | NA | 2.70 | 12.57 | 59.14 | 43.04 | 30.93 | 59.14 | 45.74 | 43.5 |
- The data include disclosures as part of the EU Ecolabel and Nordic Swan schemes for kraft pulp.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are not measured in air emissions reporting.
These substances impact the environment and human health by contributing to acid rain—which damages ecosystems and infrastructure—and causing respiratory issues. This underscores the need to control and reduce their emissions to mitigate their effects.
In the state of São Paulo, Bracell’s air emissions were calculated using emission factors provided by the state environmental regulator, CETESB. The methodology followed Board Decision No. 10/2010/P dated January 12, 2010. Emission calculations were performed through direct measurement, using continuous analyzers installed on the production line. All reported values are expressed in metric tons per year.
In Bahia, the methodology followed the guidelines of Ordinance No. 18.841 (dated August 3, 2019) on maintaining air emissions monitoring plans to ensure compliance with daily average limits for TRS, PM, SOx, and NOx. The provisions of CONAMA Resolution No. 382 (dated December 26, 2006) were also followed.
As in São Paulo, emissions in Bahia were calculated through direct measurement, using continuous analyzers installed on the production line. The goal is to ensure full compliance with Ordinance No. 18.841 and other regulatory standards through proper emissions monitoring, and to achieve zero deviations from the regulated parameters.
RR-PP-110a.1 Total gross Scope 1 emissions
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our pulp mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
In 2024, Bracell’s Scope 1 fossil emissions accounted for 43% of total emissions and amounted to 731,362.80 tCO2e, a 21.9% increase compared to the previous year. This increase was primarily driven by higher fossil fuel use in our logistics operations, especially due to longer transport distances between plantation areas and the mill, along with a significant rise in forest fire incidents.
The gases included in the Scope 1 emissions calculation are: CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs and SF6.
Bracell reports biogenic CO₂ emissions associated with forestry and mill operations. These emissions include biomass combustion, the use of renewable biofuels in the logistics fleet, fire events, and the natural dynamics of eucalyptus forest management cycles. Unlike fossil-based emissions, biogenic emissions are generally considered carbon neutral over the long term, since they come from renewable biomass that absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere during its growth.
| Emissions (tCO2e) | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Scope 1 | 614,673.00 | 597,454.00 | 731,362.80 |
| Scope 1 – Biogenic | 10,415,840.85 | 10,810,512.98 | 9,156,105.51 |
Note: The Scope 1 biogenic emissions above include stationary combustion (biomass), mobile combustion, agricultural activities, and land-use change.
RR-PP-110a.2: Discussion of long-term and short-term strategy or plan to manage Scope 1 emissions, emissions reduction targets, and an analysis of performance against those targets.
Bracell’s Greenhouse Gas Inventories follow guidance provided in the latest edition of ISO 14064, the GHG Protocol, and the quantification methodologies published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Inventories are conducted at the corporate level, covering our pulp mills in São Paulo and Bahia, as well as forestry operations in those two states and Mato Grosso do Sul.
The material topic of climate change is addressed through policies, action plans, targets, and ongoing monitoring of the outcomes of our climate initiatives. We are working to advance a low-carbon economy that is adapted to a scenario of higher average global temperatures.
The Bracell 2030 agenda establishes commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of the strategic lever “Climate Action.”
The table below presents our 2024 performance:
| Pillar
strategic |
Target 2030 |
Baseline 2020 |
Target 2030 |
Target 2024 |
2024 Performance | SDGs Addressed |
| CLIMATE ACTION | Reduce carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75%, targeting 0.122 tCO2e/adt | 0,482 tCO2e/adt | 0.122 tCO2e/adt | 0.151 tCO2e/adt | 0.208 tCO2e/adt | 13, 14, 15 |
| 25 MtCO2e removed from the atmosphere between 2020 and 2030 | Net carbon removals = fossil GHG emissions + biogenic LULUCF emissions – removals total CO2 removals from eucalyptus plantations and native vegetation areas | 25 MtCO2e | 22.19 MtCO2e | 4.30MtCO2e | 13, 14, 15 |
Note: Bracell’s carbon intensity target (tCO₂e/adt of production) covers both kraft pulp and dissolving pulp production. The 2020 baseline was calculated by directly summing the physical volumes of both products, without applying a conversion factor.
Starting in 2022, with the launch of dissolving pulp production at our São Paulo site, a conversion factor was applied to express dissolving production in kraft equivalent. This adjustment better reflects actual emissions intensity in our mills, as it accounts for differences in product types and their respective energy use and emissions.
As part of the Bracell 2030 roadmap, we have set two commitments tied to the material topic Climate Change. Our climate goals were developed based on an analysis of the risks and impacts – both positive and negative – Bracell’s operations have on climate change. Our operations emit greenhouse gases (GHG) and also capture CO₂ from the atmosphere by growing and preserving forest areas managed by Bracell, including planted eucalyptus forests and native forests.
By 2030, we have committed to reducing our carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75% from a 2020 baseline. This means reaching 0.122 tCO₂e/adt. In addition, we will remove 25 MtCO₂e from the atmosphere over the course of a decade—from 2020 to 2030.
For 2024, our interim targets were to close the year with 0.151 tCO2e/adt and 22.19 MtCO2e in removals. Measured results are detailed below:
Target 1: reduce carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 75%, targeting 0.122 tCO₂e/adt
From 2020 to 2024, we reduced carbon emissions per metric ton of product by 61%, reaching 0.208 tCO₂e/adt.
Although we achieved a 63% reduction in our emissions intensity over that period, a number of factors prevented us from meeting our 2024 target. The main negative impacts on emissions reduction came from increased mobile combustion in our operations and a higher occurrence of wildfires. On the positive side, we achieved significant operational gains this year, such as reducing natural gas consumption and expanding the use of biomass in our gasifiers. These initiatives helped reduce emissions from stationary combustion—our largest Scope 1 emissions category—and put us on track to meet our long-term targets.
We are also implementing several initiatives to mitigate climate-change impacts and keep moving forward on decarbonizing our operations. Examples include investments in electric trucks for pulp transport, currently in the trial phase, and in generating and sourcing renewable energy, as detailed in the Energy Efficiency chapter.
Target 2: 25 MtCO2e removed from the atmosphere between 2020 and 2030
From 2020 to 2024, we removed 4,229,568 tCO2e. This figure reflects the carbon balance of our operations, i.e. the difference between total removals and emissions (both anthropogenic and LULUCF biogenic).
In 2024, we faced the most challenging hydrological scenario of the past five years in the state of São Paulo. The extreme conditions were primarily caused by rising temperatures and a significant decrease in rainfall. Water deficits directly impact forest yields: the greater the deficit, the slower the eucalyptus forest growth, which in turn reduces their ability to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere during the growth process.
Additionally, the adverse climate conditions significantly increased the occurrence of forest fires.
As a result of these extreme weather events, we reached only 19% of our CO₂ removal target for 2024.
Bracell has developed a range of initiatives to mitigate these impacts and increase the resilience of our operations to climate change. Key initiatives include monitoring carbon and water flux in eucalyptus plantations; investing in forest research and development (R&D); integrated climate-related risk and impact management; and conducting climate zoning studies. Learn more in Monitoring Carbon and Water Flux in Eucalyptus Plantations and Climate Zoning Study.
RR-PP-120a.1: Air emissions for the following pollutants: (1) NOx (excluding N2O), (2) SO2, (3) volatile organic compounds (VOCs), (4) particulate matter (PM), and (5) hazardous air pollutants (HAPs)
Nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), particulate matter (PM), and total reduced sulfur (TRS) compounds are among the most critical air pollutants due to their direct and indirect impacts on climate and human health. These pollutants are mainly produced by fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes.
Reducing these emissions is essential to protect human health, improve air quality, and mitigate environmental impacts, as they are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and contribute to acid rain and secondary pollution. Reducing these pollutants also supports the protection of sensitive ecosystems.
In 2024, Bracell’s emissions remained within the limits established by Brazilian environmental regulations.
| Substance | Site | Bahia Pulp | São Paulo Pulp | Bracell | ||||||
| 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | 20221 | 2023 | 2024 | ||
| NOx | t | NA | 451.93 | 448.42 | NA | 2,847.74 | 3,131.48 | NA | 3299.64 | 3,579.90 |
| SOx | t | NA | 30.47 | 39.65 | NA | 139.89 | 59.05 | NA | 170.36 | 98.70 |
| PM | t | NA | 197.30 | 199.99 | NA | 643.26 | 473.22 | NA | 840.56 | 673.21 |
| TRS1 | t | NA | 2.70 | 12.57 | 59.14 | 43.04 | 30.93 | 59.14 | 45.74 | 43.5 |
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are not measured in air emissions reporting.
- The data include disclosures as part of the EU Ecolabel and Nordic Swan schemes for kraft pulp.
RR-PP-130a.1: (1) Total energy consumed, (2) percentage grid electricity, (3) percentage biomass, (4) percentage from other renewable.
We have set a target to ensure that our mills are self-sufficient in energy generation. To the extent possible, we use electricity from the national grid only during scheduled maintenance shutdowns. In these cases, we source electricity from the national grid.
Brazil’s energy mix is an important advantage for Bracell’s operations, with a high share of renewable sources such as hydro, wind, and solar. This improves operations efficiency and reflects our commitment to sustainable practices. Although variability in energy supply can affect availability and cost during dry periods, a diversified mix of predominantly renewable sources helps mitigate these impacts and ensure stable and sustainable operations.
| Bahia | São Paulo | Southeast paper operations¹ | Northeast paper operations | |
| Total energy consumption (GJ)² | 17,706,299.98 | 177,670,455.60 | 380,731.13 | 543,413.07 |
| Percentage grid electricity | 3.04 | 0.18 | 0.00 | 31.80 |
| Percentage biomass³ | 77.15 | 36.46 | 0.00 | 35.36 |
- Our Southeast paper operations use electricity generated as part of the pulp production process. As a result, this site does not purchase energy from external sources.
- Energy consumed = energy generated + energy purchased – energy sold.
- Both black liquor and biomass were included in the “Percentage biomass” metric.